Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage is open now. Premiums are up again, and the larger tax credits many people relied on through 2025 are gone. Whether you are renewing or shopping for the first time, a few minutes of review now can help you avoid a costly surprise next year.
1. Premiums Are Rising Again
KFF reports that benchmark silver premiums, the plans used to calculate tax credits, are rising an average of 13% for 2027. That breaks down to about 11% in HealthCare.gov states and 16% in states that run their own Marketplace. It is the second straight year of double-digit increases, leaving benchmark premiums about 42% higher than in 2025.
What this means for you: Your new price may look very different from this year’s, and the change will depend on your plan, your area, and your income. Tax credits generally rise along with benchmark premiums, so many people who qualify for help will be shielded from part of the increase.
Actionable step: Look at your 2027 renewal price and compare it with other plans in your area. Do not assume this year’s plan is still your best value.
2. Enhanced Tax Credits Are Gone, and the Income Limit Is Back
The enhanced premium tax credits ended on December 31, 2025. The original ACA tax credits are still available, but households with income above 400% of the federal poverty level generally do not qualify for any tax credit and pay the full premium.
For 2027 coverage, 400% of the poverty level is $63,840 for a single person and $132,000 for a family of four. See the limit for your household size.
What this means for you: A small change in income can make a big difference in your cost. If your income is close to the limit, earning slightly more could mean losing your tax credit entirely.
Actionable step: Estimate your 2027 household income as carefully as you can, and check whether you qualify before choosing a plan.
3. Your Income Estimate Matters More Than Ever
Tax credits are based on the income you expect to earn, then reconciled when you file your taxes. According to the IRS, repayment limits no longer apply beginning with tax year 2026. If you receive more in advance credits than you qualify for, you must repay the entire excess amount.
What this means for you: If your income comes in higher than you estimated, you could owe money at tax time, with no cap on the amount. This is especially important if your income varies, such as when you are self-employed or work on commission.
Actionable step: Report income changes to the Marketplace as soon as they happen, not just at tax time. Ask a tax professional how your situation could affect what you owe.
4. Auto-Renewal Could Cost You
Plans and networks change every year, and 2027 brings more change than usual. As of late October, KFF counted 11 insurers leaving at least one state, including Cigna leaving the individual market in all 11 states where it sells. If your plan is ending, you may be placed in a replacement plan you did not choose. If you have Cigna, here is what to do next.
The most you can be required to pay out of pocket for in-network care on an individual plan is also rising, to $12,000 for 2027 from $10,600 in 2026. Keep in mind that all Marketplace Bronze and Catastrophic plans are HSA-eligible. Catastrophic plans cannot be used with tax credits and are generally limited to people under 30 or those who qualify for an exemption.
What this means for you: A low monthly premium can come with a high deductible, and your doctors or prescriptions may not be covered under next year’s plan.
Actionable step: Before you enroll, check:
- That your doctors and hospitals are in the plan’s network
- That your prescriptions are covered
- The deductible and out-of-pocket maximum
- Whether the plan is HSA-eligible, if that matters to you
5. Compare Your Options Outside the Marketplace
The Marketplace is not your only option, especially if you do not qualify for a tax credit. These are the main differences:
- Marketplace plans: Cover pre-existing conditions and essential health benefits. This is the only place you can use premium tax credits.
- ACA plans sold off the Marketplace: Follow the same coverage rules, but you cannot use tax credits to lower the premium.
- Medically underwritten private plans: Your health history affects approval and price. You can be declined, these plans may limit or exclude certain conditions and benefits, and they do not qualify for tax credits. For some healthy people, they may cost less.
What this means for you: The right choice depends on your health, your income, and your doctors. If you have ongoing health needs, make sure you understand exactly what a plan covers before giving up guaranteed coverage.
Actionable step: Compare your options side by side. A licensed agent can go over each plan’s benefits, limitations, and exclusions with you. If you work for yourself, see our options for self-employed and 1099 earners.
Mark Your Calendar
On HealthCare.gov, Open Enrollment runs from November 1, 2026, to January 15, 2027. Your deadline depends on when you want coverage to start:
- Enroll by December 15, 2026: Coverage starts January 1, 2027, once you pay your first premium.
- Enroll December 16 through January 15: Coverage starts February 1, 2027, once you pay your first premium.
After January 15, you generally need a qualifying life event to enroll or change plans. Some states run their own Marketplace with different dates, so check the deadline for your state.
Don’t Navigate These Changes Alone
Our mission is to provide the clarity and guidance you need to make the best possible choice for your health and financial well-being.
Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today with a Licensed Agent in your state to answer your questions and provide further clarity.
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This article is general information, not tax or legal advice. Figures were current as of October 30, 2026, and may change.
Sources: HealthCare.gov, KFF, IRS, healthinsurance.org
